Saturday, April 28, 2012

India is a land of enormous
internal diversity. On your journey from Kashmir to Kanyakumari, the
cultures and things you encounter are lot more diverse and complicated
than you think. There are many actions which seem to be normal to you
but are extremely offensive in certain areas. Here we list ten things
which is considered as offensive or bad throughout the country.

1.Religious discussions

You can freely discuss about anything in India, especially politics.
Most people will have an opinion but they will not mind their opinion
being contradicted. But be careful while including the religion into any
of your discussions especially with the strangers since it is one of
the sensitive areas in the minds of Indian people and they will feel
offended for no reason!

2.Public display of affection

The beautiful backwater sceneries in Kerala and the story of Taj Mahal-
the symbol of love may make you romantic. But think twice before
performing any acts of love in public since the people around you in
India is very conservative and doesn't want to watch or do public
displays of affection.

3.Left Hand Rule

You can give rest to your left hand while you are in India. Indian
people never eat with their left hand or they won't pass or receive
anything with it. So remember - never give any gifts, money or anything
with your left hand.

4.Feet Rule

According to Indian culture, the head is considered as the superior part
of the body and feet, the inferior. So try not to touch anything
important with your feet, especially books. Also never point your feet
at someone and if you do, express your apologies immediately. However
touching elder's feet is considered as a sign of respect in India.

5.Clothing Rule

Majority of Indian people dress conservatively and it is advisable if
you do the same, especially when you are in rural areas. It is better
not to wear revealing or tight clothing especially when you visit places
of religious significance.

6.Handshake rule

In India, it is generally not acceptable for men to shake hands with a
woman until and unless she offers the same. If she extends her hand, you
should reciprocate otherwise it is better to join your palms and wish
her in Indian style.

7.Shoes rule

It is generally considered as good manners to remove shoes and sandals
before you enter someone's home. In some temples, people are not allowed
to enter into holy areas with their shirts on.

8.Gift rules

The rules related to gifts vary in different parts of India. In some
areas it is considered as an offense to gift white flowers since they
are used in funerals. Gifting alcohol and animal-skin made products are
considered as offensive in some other areas. Generally it is better to
carry some sweets along with you when you are invited to someone's home.

9.Smoking and drinking in Public

In India, it is offensive to consume alcohol or smoke in public. Even if
you smoke, remember to ask the permission, otherwise it is considered
rude. You are also not allowed to hunt or hurt animals, especially cow,
which is considered as a holy animal in many areas.

10. Last but not the least, there are a lot of spiritually elevated
people in each and every corner of India who offers magic remedies and
spiritual salvation and there is no way you can distinguish the crooks.
So as a traveler, it is advisable not to get into their traps and lose
your money.